Obituary of Ralph John Diegel

It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the peaceful passing of Ralph John Diegel on March 18, 2024 at the North Bay Regional Health Centre at the age of 97.

Beloved husband of 30 years to Pat Kenzie Diegel. Predeceased by his first wife Gwen Darling. Ralph was a devoted father to John Diegel (Kitty), Susan Dell (Don), grandfather to Mike Dell (Kim), Whitney Dell (Marino), and great grandfather to Eve Dell.

Ralph was loved dearly by his stepfamily, Mike Kenzie (Lynn), Steve Kenzie (Sheri), Rosie Kenzie Klus (Barry), Mitchell Kenzie Klus (Kylie-Anne), Becca Kenzie (Jack), Nula Kenzie, and Kayla Kenzie.

As a teenager Ralph was a Naval Cadet, He enlisted in 1943 and proudly served in the Second World War with the Royal Canadian Navy.  He remained in the Navel reserve until 1958.

Safely home, in 1946, Ralph began his career downtown at Deegan’s Shoe Store, where he dedicated 78 years. His motto was “If you can’t make a sale, make a friend”, and he made many. Ralph never retired and was at the store every day to ensure everyone was being cared for.

Ralph continued his community service as a 75-year member of Branch 23 Royal Canadian Legion, a Rotarian for 66 years, and McKay Homes Chairman for 30 years. Ralph also served as past President of the North Bay Figure Skating Club, Canadian Shoe Retailers Association, and as Chairman of the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal for 20 years. No Christmas Walk, store opening, or downtown event was complete without his trumpet tribute.

As a trumpet player, Ralph played with several bands including C.F.B North Bay 22 Wing Band, Joy Band, North Bay Area Band, and several dance bands. He was inducted into the North Bay Musicians and Entertainers Hall of Recognition in 2011. Ralph was the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 23 bugler and played for numerous Remembrance Day and Memorial services.

Ralph was loved by everyone who knew him. He personified all that is good – kindness, integrity, humour, empathy, loyalty, intelligence, courage, playfulness, determination, and most of all generosity. Never was there a man more generous in spirit and in practice. He lived a remarkable life and improved the lives of everyone he met. His contributions to the community of North Bay are unmatched.

For over half a century, Ralph played The Last Post for others and now it is to be played for him. May he long be remembered.

The family will receive visitors at Martyn Funeral Home on Friday April 12 from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 6:00pm – 8:00pm and Saturday April 13 from 12:30pm – 1:30pm.

A Legion Service will take place at 1:30pm on Saturday April 13 at Martyn Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service in the chapel. Reception will follow at Deegan’s Shoe Store at 174 Main Street West.

The family expresses deep gratitude to Dr Vigars, the GCOP Paramedics, and staff in both the Emergency Department and C1 for their sincere embodiment of compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations to North Bay Salvation Army, Rotary Club of North Bay, or a charity of choice would be greatly appreciated.